Girl
on top
In today’s competitive work world, smarts will only get you so far. It’s that rare combination of brains and beauty, though, that can truly send your career soaring. You have to look and act the part. Thus, for the Alpha Woman who wants it all, appearance couldn't be more vital.
We reached out to renowned hairstylists and beauty experts to learn how your mane can either help your career or hurt it!
Keep it simple
"As women, we’re not just recognized for our work and how well we can write a report or complete a balance sheet, but we’re viewed, and often even judged, by our looks. Don’t stand out for them, other than to appear professional, clean, neat and well put together. Your hair shouldn’t be too short, funky, spiky or excessively long and filled with extensions, especially as you get older. Clearly, rock stars and celebrities can have some leeway on the latter rules, but in general, simple is best.” — Lucy Segal, health, beauty and lifestyle expert
Rock a classic bob
"Powerful women in the workplace are also typically very busy women, multi-tasking many duties at once. This, however, is no excuse for not taking the time to look your finest. Having a neat and well-coiffed appearance will exude confidence and importance on the job. Classic bob shapes are excellent for all ages and frame the face while simultaneously coming off as polished and professional.” —Sherri Jessee, seasoned hair and makeup artist
Try a French twist
"Shiny, controlled hair denotes success. If you want to pull it back, do a traditional French twist or a chignon, but be cognizant that there are no flyaways or frizz. It’s imperative to keep texture to a minimum. Hair should be smooth and soft. To create this look, you can use a flatiron to get rid of unwanted volume, and apply Wella SP Satin Polish Cream or Halo Mist by Sebastian — both will leave your hair with a reflective sheen." — Claudio Lazo, celebrity hairstylist and owner of C The Salon in Studio City
Tailor it
"In my opinion, successful women always exude confidence. And with that being said, most females with very well-defined, tailored, structured and serious hairstyles excel at what they do." — DaRico Jackson, celebrity hairstylist
Get noticed with a new ‘do
"Most people attempt to fit into the basic culture that has already been established when they take a job, and to some extent, your hairstyle can either work for or against you in that regard. I do think it's important to feel authentic, and not phony though. How you wear your hair can be a liberating way to express yourself. Usually, it's the execution of your cut that counts. Keep your hair clean and healthy, get regular trims and stay current! If you haven't expressed your personality through your hair in a new style for years on end, consider shaking things up a bit. After all, a new hairstyle gets you noticed, especially at work!"— Andre Walker, Creative Director of Andre Walker Hair, LLC, and seven-time Emmy-Award winning stylist to Oprah Winfrey
What does your hairstyle say about your personality?
We asked Scott Fontana, expert stylist and owner of Cristophe Salon Newport Beach, to share his thoughts:
Short hair says you are a very strong personality. You’re a go-getter, you don’t fool around and you get the job done.
Long hair worn wavy/curly says you are a very fun person who likes to go out for a drink after work.
Long, straight hair says you’re serious, but you still like to have a good time.
Flawless hair, meaning every single strand is in place, says you’re a perfectionist — everything has to be just right.
What does your hair color say about your personality?
Nicole Hartman, hairstylist and colorist at Prive Salon in Los Angeles, says that while your hair isn’t a correct indicator of your personality, society has stereotyped certain shades. Here’s her take on blondes, brunettes and redheads:
Blondes clearly have more fun! I actually believe that blondes are getting a more serious rep. Hillary Clinton is a blonde in a position of power and being taken very seriously. The super model Agyness Deyn couldn't book a single job when she went dark for a short period of time. Blondes are on the way to becoming the new brunettes.
Brunettes are usually viewed as more conservative and introverted, but they are getting the job done.
Redheads are seen as strong, passionate and goal oriented. Most women actually say that if they could change their hair color for one day, it would be red. I believe that most women look great in red hair. The trick is just to choose the right shade that complements your skin color.
Hairstyles you should never rock to work
Do ditch these ‘dos for the office, says Hartman!
- Super styled hair
- The “Bump It”
- Bad extensions to hide short hair, or extensions that show. If your hair is too short to put in extensions, listen to your hairdresser and don't do it. Rock short hair — it shows confidence!
- Crimped hair
- Unwashed, don't-care kind of hair
- Grown out hair color
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